Dream of turning pro

West League players in search of their next kick

Yannic Fötschl (left) is currently in good form.(Bild: Andreas Tröster)

Three footballers from the Regionalliga West were on trial with second division teams last week. A Bundesliga professional believes St. Johann's central defender Christoph Gruber is capable of making the leap. While Yannic Fötschl's future is uncertain, Grünau's Marco Rottensteiner is once again auditioning for Bregenz.

Civilian service was one of the reasons why St. Johann's Christoph Gruber's move to Bregenz in the second division fell through in the winter. However, the jump to professional soccer should finally work out in the summer. Last week, the central defender played again in Austria's second-highest division. "It was definitely a cool experience to train at that level," said Gruber, taking a few things away from St. Pölten. "There's an even higher tempo and more quality there, but I really enjoyed it." Wolves coach Philipp Semlic was also full of praise: "Christoph is one of the players we're watching. During the international break, he had the opportunity to do a few training sessions with us - he did a good job. We will continue to monitor him, just like other players."

The 22-year-old does not yet know what will happen next. "But I've received very positive feedback," said the Pongau native happily. If it's up to someone who already plays in the Bundesliga, Gruber will definitely make it.

Alex Briedl (center) still knows Gruber from the Red Bull Academy.(Bild: GEPA pictures/Christian Moser)

Blau-Weiß-Linz kicker Alexander Briedl is convinced: "He will make his way and I definitely believe he will make the leap to professional football." The two still know each other from their time together at the Red Bull Academy and keep in touch. Could Briedl suggest his buddy to the Stahlstädter? "I haven't been asked yet," smiles the 21-year-old.

Austrias Yannic Fötschl is also looking for the next kick - i.e. professional soccer. Before his strong performance against Schwaz (one goal, one assist), the son of lower house coach Andi Fötschl was a guest in Bregenz for a trial training session.

"It was a cool experience and I really enjoyed it," says the 21-year-old. He is also not sure what will happen next: "We'll see."

Grünau's Marco Rottensteiner is heading to the Ländle again after training last week. The Bregenz team want to take another look at the midfielder in a test match against Swiss first division side St. Gallen. A decision will then be made. "He's definitely on Bregenz's wish list," said Heli Rottensteiner, father and sporting director of Wals-Grünau. At the weekend, even the assistant coach of the black-and-whites watched the win in Rankweil.

Signatures missing
The Bundesliga announced several additional requirements for Austria's license. Among other things, an event permit for the Maxglan location and signed sponsorship contracts, which are currently still missing.